Looking for advice on whether Singapore is worth visiting? Compared to other Southeast Asia destinations, such as Hong Kong, it can initially appear soulless, expensive, and meticulously planned.
However, read our honest list of pros and cons to what makes Singapore worth visiting before making your decision.
We have visited the country numerous times on 3 or 4 night stopovers. We have explored the island extensively, and find it unique, not just as a quick stopover but as a destination in its own right.
Keep an open mind. Don’t compare it to other countries. And don’t believe the hype that you can see all the sights in a couple of days. Singapore will surprise you, and keep you entertained for far longer.
WHY VISIT SINGAPORE
Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore is a prosperous, renowned business hub and world class shopping destination.
Peel back its shiny exterior layer however, and you will discover a fascinating multi-cultural country.
Singapore’s winning formula lies in its ability to marry a colonial past with a sleek, progressive future, in a manner which is both engaging and alluring for its visitors.
Brimming with iconic architecture, interactive museums, and charming neighborhoods, you will be lured back for a second and third visit.
The pros of visiting Singapore:
1. HISTORICAL & INNOVATIVE ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
Singapore’s culture and modernisation can best be seen in its eye-catching architecture.
With a vibrant commercial and civic district, beautifully preserved buildings sit aside heritage shophouses, futuristic skyscrapers and art deco neighbouring buildings.
This mix of old and new showcases national historical monuments with architectural wonders of present day design.
From condominium and residential complexes such as The Interlace, to the eye-catching Esplanade, Singapore has some unique and quirky buildings.
Known as the garden city, Singapore excels at flawlessly intertwining urban architecture with lush greenery. Tall buildings are interspaced with nature parks, gardens, and sanctuaries.
Some of the best places to go in Singapore to view notable architecture are the Helix Bridge, modelled after the double helix DNA, and Gardens by the Bay with its quirky and futuristic Supertrees.
2. CULTURE AND HISTORY
Singapore is a nation with history and soul and goes to great depths to preserve it’s cultural past.
Discover the role of Sir Stamford Raffles in founding modern Singapore from its once, sleepy fishing village. Follow the path up to modern day Singapore, as a global financing and trader leader.
SINGAPORE RIVER & CLARKE QUAY
Historic Singapore River and Clarke Quay were once the centre of the island’s commercial activity and a busy waterway. Today you can enjoy a leisurely bumboat cruise along this very waterway.
Take in the views as you reminisce days gone by, when boats would ply the warehouses on either side, to off-load cargo from liners anchored offshore.
SINGAPORE’S INTRICATE TEMPLES, CHURCHES & MOSQUES
Gain insight into the history and culture of Singapore by visiting important places like Sri Mariamman Temple, Thian Hock Keng Temple, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sultan Mosque and St. Andrew’s Cathedral.
SINGAPORE’S INTERESTING & INFORMATIVE MUSEUMS
Singapore has a plethora of museums to wander around. Learn about the nation’s history at the National Museum, gain insight into Peranakan Culture at the Peranakan Museum or visit the Mint Museum of Toys for a more unconventional experience. That is just for starters!
DIVERSE & INSPIRING ARTS SCENE
With a growing Arts scene, Singapore celebrates local artists and showcases creativity. Singapore Art Museum is dedicated to contemporary art, while murals provide creative expression and there is even an annual Art Week.
3. VIBRANT NEIGHBOURHOODS
When Sir Stamford Raffles drew up plans for the original town plan, each culture was assigned their own district.
Each neighbourhood and district has it’s own sense of identity, charm and character. Although multi-cultural, each religion is celebrated with national holidays and festivals.
Wandering around these quaint suburbs give you a sense of what makes them unique.
CHINATOWN
Retrace the footsteps of early immigrants as you stroll around the heart of Chinatown. Discover a heady mix of cultures, temples, shophouses and multi-ethnic culinary delights.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum displays Buddhism’s art and rich history, while Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore’s oldest Hindu Temple.
LITTLE INDIA
The hub of Singapore’s Indian community, it’s streets are named after former residents. The bustling side-streets are lined with fabric shops and fragrant spice stalls.
Of particular note is Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the country’s oldest Hindu temples, a distinctive landmark. With a homely and bohemian atmosphere, Little India is colourful, aromatic and vibrant district.
Visit 24-hour Mustafa Centre shopping mall, buy souvenirs at Little India Arcade or try fish-head curry.
KAMPONG GLAM
A nice enclave to the east of Little India, Kampong Glam is a lovely area to stroll around, especially at night. The large golden-domed Sultan Mosque is a landmark and the areas history can be discovered at Malay Heritage Centre.
Kampong Glam was originally allocated by Sir Stamford Raffles, to the Arab, Malay, and Bugis communities. Nowadays you will find quirky boutiques sitting alongside traditional wares.
At night Haji Lane brims over with live music, bright lights and hip eateries.
4. NATURE AND GARDENS
Singapore’s vision is to be a country of gardens for everyone to enjoy and cherish.
Green spaces in this bustling metropolis make up nearly 50% of the country, meaning you are never far from a park.
This sprawling parks network is managed by the National Parks Board who are busy linking, via park connectors, nature reserves and parks across Singapore.
Check out historical landmarks in Fort Canning Park, hike the many trails in MacRitchie Reservoir Park or walk Henderson Waves, a distinctive wave-like structure in the Southern Ridges, the choices are endless.
SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS
Visit UNESCO’s only Tropical Botanic Garden. Established in 1859, Singapore’s Botanic Gardens are beloved by locals, and a true testament to the Islands reputation as a City in a Garden.
Among its treasure trove of plants, is the National Orchid Garden, boasting the world’s largest orchid display, with over 60,000 plants and orchid plants.
Location | 18 Marina Gardens Drive | WEBSITE
5. WILDLIFE
Prepare to discover a wildlife paradise! Animal lovers will be enthralled with wildlife conservation venues such as Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, River Wonders and Night Safari.
SINGAPORE ZOO & NIGHT SAFARI
Singapore Zoo has an “open-concept” environment for its 4,200 specimens of over 300 species. Visitors can see animals in large enclosures separated by hidden barriers such as moats and glass.
Getting around the park is fun too, as you can walk, ride a tram and sail along by boat.
A popular attraction is the Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, only open at night.
Inspired by the world’s most famous rivers, the River Wonders is Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park. Housing 240 species of over 7,500 aquatic and land animals, it really is something special to see.
MANDAI BIRD PARADISE
Asia’s largest bird park has seen over 30 million visitors in the 50 years it has been open. There are 400 species across 3,500 birds including majestic birds of prey, colourful rare parrots, penguins and more!
6. HAWKER CENTRES & FOOD CULTURE
Eat like a local in hawker centres. Hawker centres are at the very core of Singapore life, offering affordable prices for numerous cuisines. Sample “not to be missed” local creations such as Nasi Lemak, Rojak, Roti Prata and Kaya Toast at Hawker centres dotted around the island, or be tantalized by the array of local delights to be found at Chinatown Food Street.
Some hawker centres to visit include:
- Newton Food Centre
- Amoy Street Food Centre – 7 Maxwell Road
- Maxwell Hawker Centre – 1 Kadayanallur Street
- Tiong Bahru Market Hawker Centre – 30 Seng Poh Road
- Chinatown Complex Food Centre – 335 Smith Street
TRY A SINGAPORE SLING
For an iconic Singapore experience, visit Raffles Hotel Long Bar and taste the primarily gin based Singapore Sling, which was created by Raffles bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in the 1900’s.
The cocktail contains pineapple juice, grenadine, lime, dom benedictine, cointreau and cherry brandy. It is also the only place in Singapore that encourages littering, in the form of discarded nut shells!
Location | Raffles Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd | WEBSITE
ROOFTOP BARS
Singapore has a pacey nightlife scene whether you want to go dancing, or enjoy your drinks while admiring Singapore’s stunning skyline.
Watch the sunset at one of the many sky-high rooftop bars and take in the views of the city. There are plenty of favourites to choose from.
Ce La Vi, perched atop of Marina Bay Sands, allows you to enjoy views of Marina Bay in all it’s 360-degree panoramic glory.
VIBRANT CAFE SCENE
With a booming array of cafes springing up you can find a new favorite every week. Take time to wander the streets and alleys of neighboring districts where plenty of interesting cafes ply for business. If coffee is not your thing, drop by one of the modern Chinese Tea Houses where you can take your tea brewed the traditional way.
7. OUTER ISLANDS
Fancy pristine beaches and quiet lagoons? Escape the city for some solace and downtime by jumping on a small local ferry and island hopping to tropical paradise. St John and Kusa Islands are within 20 minutes ride of mainland Singapore and are practically deserted.
St John’s Island, once a quarantine centre and later a drug rehabilitation centre, was transformed in 1975. Swim in lagoons, picnic on the beach, follow a trail or relax and get acquainted with some of the many cats who call the island home.
Head to Kusu Island for tales of tortoises and temples. Climb 152 steps to pay your respects to the 3 holy shrines of Malay saints (keramats) sit.
HAVE FUN AT RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA
If you are looking for fun and adventure, Sentosa Island has it in bucket loads. With Universal Studios, S.E.A Aquarium, Lake of Dreams and Adventure Cove Waterpark, there is something for everyone.
8. SHOPPING
Singapore is a shopper’s paradise and the choices available will unleash the inner shopaholic in the most seasoned of shoppers. Start off along famous Orchard Road, once lined with orchards.
Brace yourself for a shopping experience to top all others as you have a variety of iconic shopping precincts around Singapore to explore.
With high end international labels, high street staples, local homegrown favorites, unique quirky finds, lifestyle stores and outlet shopping, there is something for every type of shopper at every hour of the day.
From Marina Bay Sands, Raffles City, VivoCity, and numerous other options, there is something to suit every taste and pocket.
9. FORMULA ONE SPECTACLE
Hosting the formula one Grand Prix annually, the adrenaline fuelled Marina Bay Street Circuit is a spectacle to behold for any F1 fan or indeed sports fans in general. This 10-day Grand Prix sees top racing teams compete along the street circuit in the downtown of the island. Check timings and availability of tickets on the official site.
10. EVEN MORE REASONS TO VISIT SINGAPORE
EASY TO NAVIGATE
With one of the world’s most efficient transit systems, constantly being upgraded and expanded, it is incredibly easy to get around the country.
The MRT is clean, proficient and a joy to use, linking you to most areas in a timely manner.
CLEANLINESS AND SAFETY
Priding itself on its very low crime rates and impeccable cleanliness , it is an absolute pleasure to walk around the streets, visit attractions and use public transport in Singapore. Stringent enforcements are in place against littering, spitting and chewing gum, with fines applicable for offenders.
Make sure your trip goes smoothly by being aware of the do’s and don’ts in Singapore before your visit.
CHANGI, THE WORLD’S BEST AIRPORT
Continually voted “the world’s best airport”, you will understand why, as soon as you arrive.
Changi is more than an airport. It is an innovative, futuristic, cool, modern and welcoming destination in it’s own right. It is a guilty pleasure that leaves you feeling calmer and with a smile on your face.
Packed with offerings to delight every visitor, from a butterfly garden, heritage zone, hedge maze and discovery slides, to the world’s tallest waterfall and unique stylish washrooms.
Check out the attractions by terminal!
FREE AFTER DARK ACTIVITIES
The city continues to entertain visitors even when night falls. As dusk falls, around the Supertrees, a nightly light and sound show called Garden Rhapsody comes on.
Facing Marina Bay, each night you are treated to a stunning water and light show, Spectra, which is 15 minutes of laser beams, visual art projections and dancing streams. This is just the tip of the iceberg in this wonderful island!
The cons of visiting Singapore:
There really aren’t any! We highly recommend visiting.
Visting Singapore FAQ:
Yes, Singapore is not cheap compared to other destinations in Asia. However, there are plenty of ways to save money on accommodation, food, and sights.
2 or 3 days is enough to cover the main centrally located highlights. However, stay longer and you can take your time, and explore other parts of the island.
You could definitely find enough to do over 7 nights. If you are passing through Singapore on the way to Australia or New Zealand, then I suggest breaking up your journey in both directions. Maybe 3 nights one way, and 4 nights another.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON WHETHER SINGAPORE IS WORTH VISITING
After numerous visits to Singapore we always discover new things to explore. We really like the cleanliness, culture, futuristic architecture, green spaces, and of course the food.
This is a country with a unique and interesting character which offers a diverse array of activities to suit all age groups, making it an ideal city to explore.
If you do decide to take a trip to this country you will not be left disappointed, in fact you will want to return for a second visit!
READ MORE ABOUT SINGAPORE
- Ultimate Singapore Travel Guide For First Timers
- Astonishing Do’s And Don’ts In Singapore You Need To know
- Visit Singapore On A Budget
- Where To Stay In Singapore To Maximize Your Time
- How To Dress In Singapore And Look Great
- Awesome Things To Do In Singapore At Night For Fun
- Remarkably Easy 5-Day Singapore Itinerary You’ll Love
- Visit Kusu Island, One Of Singapore’s Southern Islands
- Uncover Singapore Hidden Gems And Unique Things To Do
- Chinatown Singapore : Best Things To Do In A Day
- 52 Free Things To Do In Singapore To Save Money
PIN FOR LATER:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through this link. This income goes towards the sites running costs and enables us to provide our readers with free content. Read our Disclosure.